Apple's March 4 Event 2025: Everything You Need to Know About New iPads, MacBooks, and M5 Chips

Apple just confirmed what tech enthusiasts have been buzzing about for weeks. The company's holding its first major event of 2025 on March 4, and it's shaping up to be one of the most anticipated hardware announcements in years. We're talking new MacBooks, upgraded iPads, and the debut of Apple's next-generation M5 chip family. If you care about Mac hardware or Apple's tablet ecosystem, this date just became unmissable.

The event takes place in New York City at 9 AM ET, and Apple's framing it as an "Apple Experience" rather than a traditional keynote. This is an interesting choice that signals something different might be happening with how Apple presents its products. But make no mistake: this is where the real announcements happen. Versions of the same event will simultaneously occur in London and Shanghai, giving Apple's global team a chance to experience the unveilings together.

What makes March 4 particularly significant isn't just the announcements themselves. It's that Apple appears to be kicking off its entire 2025 hardware refresh cycle. The company's been relatively quiet on the Mac side since October's M5 MacBook Pro launch, and demand for updated gear has been building. Industry analysts have been tracking Apple's supply chain moves for months, and everything points to some genuinely compelling hardware about to drop.

The big question everyone's asking: what exactly will Apple announce? The rumors have been consistent enough that we can make some educated guesses. But there's still genuine uncertainty about timing, configurations, and whether Apple might surprise us with something nobody's expecting. That's what keeps these events exciting.

The MacBook Air Gets the M5 Treatment

The MacBook Air is where most people start when they're shopping for a Mac. It's Apple's accessible entry point into the MacBook world, and it's been refreshed regularly over the past couple of years. But the current generation (with M3 and M4 chips) is starting to feel a little dated, especially now that the MacBook Pro has moved to M5.

March 4 should be when Apple levels things up. Industry sources suggest the new MacBook Air will come with the M5 chip as standard, bringing it in line with the "Pro" tier in terms of processing power. This is actually significant. The jump from M4 to M5 represents generational improvement in CPU performance, GPU capability, and AI processing. We're talking about 10-15% faster single-core performance and potentially 20% improvements in GPU rendering for creative work.

The color options are particularly interesting. Apple might introduce new finishes that sound cosmetic but actually matter for the brand's overall aesthetic. Light yellow, light green, blue, and pink colorways have been mentioned in rumors, which would give the Air a more playful personality than the current silver, space gray, and midnight options. This mirrors the strategy Apple used with the iBook G3 line back in the late '90s—design as personality, not just function.

Pricing should remain competitive. The MacBook Air typically starts around $1,199, and there's little reason to expect Apple will change that with the M5 update. What you'll get for that price point, though, is substantially better performance. The M5's efficiency improvements should also extend battery life slightly, keeping the MacBook Air at around 16-18 hours of real-world use.

The MacBook Air's keyboard, trackpad, and overall industrial design won't change. Apple's holding the line on the design language it introduced with the M3 Air back in 2024. The real evolution is under the hood, and that's where it should be for a refresh this close to the last redesign.

The M5 chip offers notable performance improvements, with the GPU seeing the highest gains at 25% and the Neural Engine at 30%. Estimated data.

MacBook Pro Gets M5 Pro and M5 Max: The Pro Tier Deepens

Apple's professional-grade laptops are getting the bigger shake-up. The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are both getting M5 Pro and M5 Max variants, and this is where things get genuinely technical.

Remember: the M5 base chip arrived in October as part of the regular MacBook Pro lineup. But the "Pro" and "Max" variants are different beasts entirely. The M5 Pro is designed for heavy creative work and software development. The M5 Max is for people who need maximum performance and don't care about power consumption or cost.

What actually changed from M4 to M5 in the Pro tier? The CPU core count stays the same (12-core configurations for Pro, 12-core base for Max), but the GPU gets bigger improvements. The M5 Pro maxes out at 20-core GPU, while the M5 Max can hit 40-core GPU configurations. For anyone rendering video, working with 3D models, or processing massive datasets, that's a meaningful step forward.

Memory configurations are also expanding. Expect the new MacBook Pros to support up to 128GB of unified memory standard, with potential 192GB options in the Max tier. This matters because many professional workflows now require this kind of system-level memory to avoid constant swapping to SSD. Video editors working with 8K footage, AI researchers training models locally, and 3D artists rendering complex scenes all see real benefits.

The thermal design has been refined again. Apple's been incrementally improving how these chips dissipate heat, which matters in a laptop chassis. Better thermals mean more sustained performance under load without the fan spinning into a jet engine mode. Professionals who keep their laptops running 8+ hours in meetings appreciate not having that constant high-pitched whine.

Display technology on the 14 and 16-inch models might get a subtle upgrade too. We could see slightly improved brightness or more vibrant color accuracy, though this is less confirmed than the chip upgrades. Either way, the MacBook Pro displays are already phenomenal, so improvements will be incremental.

Apple maintains stable base prices across its product lineup, ensuring value through enhanced features without increasing entry costs.

The Entry-Level MacBook Mystery: A Fifth Option?

Here's where things get speculative but genuinely interesting. Multiple sources have hinted that Apple might announce a completely new entry-level MacBook at this event. Not a MacBook Air. An actual new "MacBook" tier positioned even below the Air.

The details are fuzzy, but the idea makes strategic sense. The MacBook Air starts at

What would power this device? Probably the base M5 chip. Nothing fancy, but enough for everyday computing. And here's the design angle: these entry-level MacBooks would come in color options like light yellow, green, blue, and pink. That's a psychological shift. Apple's repositioning the MacBook as something not just powerful but also expressive. It's saying "this computer can be fun."

The trade-offs? Probably a 13-inch display, potentially only USB-C connectivity (no HDMI or SD card slot), and maybe slightly reduced battery life compared to the Air. But for the target customer—someone upgrading from a Chromebook or Windows laptop—this would be remarkably good.

Historically, Apple's been hesitant to fragment the MacBook lineup. Too many options create decision paralysis. But the market pressures are real. Chromebooks own the student segment, and Windows manufacturers have been aggressive with budget models. An entry-level colored MacBook could be Apple's answer to that competition.

iPad Air Joins the M-Series Club

The iPad lineup is getting attention too, and the most significant rumor involves the iPad Air jumping to the M4 chip. This is important because it blurs the line between iPad Air and iPad Pro.

For context: iPad Air currently uses the M2 chip, which is getting long in the tooth. The M4 is a generation ahead, offering better CPU performance, AI processing improvements, and GPU capability. This matters most for professional creative work on iPad. Designers, architects, and video editors who use apps like Procreate, Adobe Fresco, or Resolve would see real benefits from the M4's improved performance.

The M4 iPad Air also makes sense from a product strategy perspective. It lets Apple differentiate iPad Pro and iPad Air by features and screen quality rather than raw processing power. The Pro gets a 120 Hz display, Pro Motion support, and Mini-LED backlighting. The Air gets the M4 performance in a more affordable package. It's elegant segmentation.

Displays on the new iPad Air might get a refresh too. Potentially improved brightness, better color accuracy, or updated anti-reflective coatings. Apple's been iterating on iPad display technology, and these incremental improvements add up when you're looking at the screen for 8+ hours a day.

Storage options should expand as well. Expect base configurations of 256GB, with 512GB, 1TB, and possibly 2TB variants available. This aligns with how people actually use iPad Air now—as a legitimate alternative to laptops for serious work.

The M5 chip in the new MacBook Air is expected to offer 10-15% faster single-core performance, 20% better GPU rendering, and extend battery life to 18 hours. Estimated data.

The Entry-Level iPad Gets Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is the new AI capability set that Apple's been rolling out to its devices. It includes on-device AI features, smarter Siri, and writing tools powered by generative AI. One of the limitations so far: it's only available on higher-end devices with the A17 Pro or M-series chips.

March 4 might be when that changes. Rumors suggest Apple will introduce a new entry-level iPad with the A18 chip, specifically engineered to support Apple Intelligence. This is important because Apple Intelligence loses much of its value if the devices that have it are limited to iPad Pro and high-end iPhones.

An A18-powered entry-level iPad would start at

The trade-offs are real though. The A18 isn't as powerful as M4, so performance would be noticeably slower for complex tasks. But for a device at that price point, it's a solid foundation. Eight-hour battery life is realistic, storage starts at 64GB or 128GB, and you get the standard iPad design in silver or space gray.

This move also positions Apple for a healthy iPad refresh cycle. You'd have entry-level iPad with A18, iPad Air with M4, and iPad Pro with M4 (or potentially M5). That's clear product stratification that makes sense for different customer segments.

Mac mini, Mac Studio, and Studio Display Updates

Apple didn't say these will announce at the March 4 event, but the timeline suggests they're coming soon. The Mac mini and Mac Studio are desktop computers with very different purposes, and both are overdue for updates.

The Mac mini is Apple's affordable desktop entry point. It's perfect for people who want Mac performance without buying a laptop. Current versions use M4 Pro chips, which are fine, but M5 Pro would bring them in line with the MacBook Pro refresh. For $699, a Mac mini with M5 Pro would be genuinely compelling. It's powerful enough for most professional work and comes at a price point that makes sense.

Mac Studio is more niche. It's designed for creative professionals who need serious processing power but don't want a Mac Pro tower. Updating it with M5 Max makes total sense. Video editors, 3D artists, and audio engineers would see real benefits from the improved GPU performance.

The Studio Display is interesting. It's Apple's professional-grade monitor, and at $1,599, it's expensive. Will they update it? Possibly, but maybe not at this event. A potential revision might include Thunderbolt 5 connectivity or improved anti-glare coating, but that's lower priority than the portable devices.

The timing here is crucial. If these updates come too fast after March 4, Apple risks cannibalizing sales of the new MacBook Pro and Air. If they come too late, the desktop line falls behind the refresh cycle. Apple typically spaces these out by 2-3 months, so expect Mac mini and Mac Studio announcements around May or June.

The M5 chip offers significant improvements over the M4, with up to 30% better Neural Engine performance and 25% GPU enhancement. Estimated data.

The Chip Transition: What M5 Actually Improves

Understanding what's new in M5 requires getting technical, but it's worth it because it explains why this event matters.

The M5 is built on a refined process technology. It's not a completely new architecture like jumping from Intel to Apple Silicon was, but rather an evolution. The CPU sees incremental improvements—better branch prediction, improved cache efficiency, slightly higher clock speeds. Real-world impact? About 10-15% faster performance in single-threaded tasks. For people running compilers, databases, or AI inference workloads, that's meaningful.

The GPU is where more substantial improvements happen. Apple's expanded the GPU core counts and improved memory bandwidth between the GPU and CPU. This helps tasks that move lots of data between processors, like video rendering or scientific computing. You're looking at 20-30% performance gains in GPU-bound workloads.

The Neural Engine—Apple's AI-specific processor—gets a significant upgrade. This is where Apple Intelligence actually runs. The Neural Engine in M5 is faster and more efficient, which means Apple Intelligence features run quicker and use less power. For text generation, image analysis, and on-device AI tasks, this is a real advancement.

Power efficiency is another angle. The M5 maintains similar wattage to M4 but provides more performance per watt. This translates to longer battery life. MacBook Air users could see an extra hour or two of browsing time. In professional laptops running heavy workloads, sustained performance improves because the chip can maintain higher clock speeds longer before hitting thermal limits.

Memory bandwidth improvements matter too. The memory subsystem talks to the CPU and GPU more efficiently, reducing bottlenecks. This particularly benefits AI workloads where you're constantly moving tensors and weights through the processor.

Why March 2025 Matters for Apple's Timeline

Apple's product refresh schedule follows patterns. They typically launch new hardware in spring (March/April), summer (WWDC), fall (September/October), and occasionally in between. March 4 kicks off what looks like an aggressive 2025.

The company's facing genuine competitive pressure. Intel and AMD have made real progress on power efficiency and AI performance. Microsoft's Copilot integration and dedicated NPU chips are gaining traction. Google's pushing Gemini across Chrome OS. Apple needs to demonstrate that Mac hardware and iPad hardware justify the premium prices people pay.

March timing also makes sense for education sales. Universities and schools make purchasing decisions in spring for the next academic year. Students graduating need new computers. Getting refreshed hardware available in March gives Apple maximum reach into back-to-school season.

There's also momentum building. Apple Intelligence still feels new to many users—it only rolled out last fall to iPhone 15 Pro. By March, more people have experienced it on iPhone and want it on their Mac or iPad. Updating the Mac and iPad lines lets Apple say "Apple Intelligence is now everywhere," which is a powerful marketing message.

The competition angle can't be ignored either. Copilot+ PCs from Microsoft's partners have been gaining attention with their dedicated AI processors. MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with M5 and improved Apple Intelligence will be Apple's answer. The message: "Our AI is faster, more private, and doesn't require dedicated hardware."

The M5 Max offers significantly higher GPU cores and memory capacity compared to the M5 Pro, making it ideal for intensive professional tasks. Estimated data based on typical configurations.

Display Upgrades and Design Language Evolution

Apple's been iterating on display technology steadily. MacBook displays have improved from 500 nits to 1,000+ nits. iPad displays offer incredible color accuracy. The trend continues.

For MacBook Air, expect the 1,600-nit display to stay, but anti-reflective coating might improve. For MacBook Pro, the mini-LED displays might get brightness bumps or better color gamut. These aren't revolutionary changes, but when you're staring at a screen for 8 hours, they matter.

The design language is largely staying the same. MacBook Pro and Air keep their minimalist aluminum chassis. The bezels are thin. The keyboard is proven. Apple's philosophy is "if it works, don't break it." The changes are evolutionary.

What might change is the color options. If the entry-level MacBook comes in light yellow, green, blue, and pink, there's a chance Apple extends these to MacBook Air. Probably not the Pro models—professionals care less about color than mainstream consumers. But the Air? That's a reasonable place to experiment.

The notch on MacBook Pro displays isn't going anywhere. Apple's committed to this design for the foreseeable future. It doesn't actually reduce usable screen space—the menu bar is still there—but it took people a while to adjust psychologically. By now, most don't even notice it.

Connectivity: Thunderbolt 5 Expectations

Apple's been incremental with ports. MacBook Pro currently has three Thunderbolt 3 ports. Will that change to Thunderbolt 5? The timing makes sense—Thunderbolt 5 offers double the bandwidth of Thunderbolt 3 (80 Gbps vs 40 Gbps), which matters for people transferring massive video files or connecting to high-end external GPUs.

But here's the thing: Thunderbolt 5 adoption is still limited. Peripherals that actually take advantage of the higher bandwidth are rare. So Apple might hold off and introduce Thunderbolt 5 later in the year. MacBook Air might stick with Thunderbolt 3, which is still extremely capable.

Wi-Fi 7 is more likely. Most new laptops are getting Wi-Fi 7 support now, and Apple's been consistent about supporting the latest wireless standards. Wi-Fi 7 offers faster speeds and lower latency, which benefits video conferencing and cloud collaboration.

The USB-C standard stays consistent. Apple went all-in on USB-C years ago, and there's no indication that's changing. Multiple USB-C ports on MacBook Air provide flexibility for charging, data transfer, and external display connectivity.

The MacBook Air M5 and Pro updates are highly likely, with a score of 90%. Software surprises and Mac mini/Mac Studio updates are less likely, scoring 50% and 30% respectively. (Estimated data)

Pricing Strategy and Market Positioning

Apple's pricing has been predictable. MacBook Air at

The interesting question is whether new configurations affect price. If Apple adds more storage options or memory configurations, will base prices shift? Historically, Apple tries to hold base prices steady while adding value—more storage, faster components, better displays—without raising the entry point.

For iPad Air and entry-level iPad, pricing is clearer. iPad Air stays around

Apple's strategy here is deliberate. They want the MacBook Air to feel like the ultimate value in the Mac lineup while still being premium compared to Windows alternatives. They want iPad Air to bridge iPad and iPad Pro. They want entry-level iPad to be aspirational for budget-conscious people.

The M5 upgrade justifies holding prices steady because users are getting better performance, longer battery life, and improved AI capabilities without paying more. From Apple's perspective, this is win-win: customers feel they're getting more value, and Apple doesn't have to worry about raising sticker prices (which creates negative perception).

The Event Experience: Why "Apple Experience" Matters

Apple's framing this as an "Apple Experience" rather than a "Keynote" or "Event." This might be more than just semantics. It suggests Apple might show products in different ways—perhaps more hands-on demonstrations, fewer slides, more focus on how products actually work rather than explaining specs.

This aligns with Apple's recent strategy. They've been moving away from the massive keynote model (with thousands of people and multi-hour presentations) toward smaller, more intimate events. The M1 Mac launch happened during WWDC in 2020. The iPhone 12 reveal was multi-part. COVID forced experimentation, and Apple discovered they actually liked these smaller, more focused presentations.

The fact that London and Shanghai are getting simultaneous experiences suggests Apple's leveraging time zones to create a global moment without requiring live streaming. Press can see products in person. Customers get coverage in their local media. It's more expensive to execute, but Apple clearly sees value in the approach.

One practical question: will this be livestreamed? Apple hasn't confirmed either way. Historically, they livestream major events, so that seems likely. But with a smaller in-person experience, the livestream might be more curated footage rather than a traditional keynote broadcast.

Software Preparation: macOS and iPadOS Updates

March usually coincides with software updates too. You can expect macOS 15.4 or 15.5 to arrive around the same time, with new features tailored to M5 capabilities. This might include improved Apple Intelligence features, better integration with iPhone and iPad, or new developer tools.

iPadOS should also get an update that takes advantage of the new iPad hardware. Potentially including new apps that only run on M4 iPad Air, or new AI features that rely on the improved Neural Engine.

These software updates matter because they justify the hardware refresh. Better software + faster hardware = compelling reason to upgrade. Apple's learned that hardware and software announcements together are stronger than hardware alone.

Developers will also get to play with M5 Macs, which helps App Store adoption of features tailored to the new hardware. This is important for the ecosystem—professional apps like Adobe Premiere, Logic Pro, and Final Cut Pro will quickly optimize for M5 improvements.

Supply Chain Reality: When You Can Actually Buy

Here's a critical distinction: announcement date and availability date are different. Apple announced these products on March 4. When can you buy them?

Typically, Apple allows pre-orders within days of announcement, with general availability a week or two later. So expect MacBook Air and Pro to be available for pre-order around March 5-7, with shipping starting March 12-14.

The entry-level MacBook (if announced) might have different timing. Sometimes Apple introduces products but delays availability to manage manufacturing. It wouldn't shock me if that device was "available in spring" with actual sales starting in April.

Supply constraints are worth monitoring. Chip manufacturing has normalized after the pandemic chaos, but popular configurations still sell out. The M5 MacBook Air in specific colors? Expect those to have longer wait times initially.

This matters for buying strategy. If you need a new MacBook immediately, buying before March 4 gets you a machine sooner. If you can wait, you get better specs for the same price by waiting for the M5 refresh. Most people should wait.

Expert Perspectives on What's Coming

Industry analysts who track Apple's supply chain have been consistent in their reporting. The M5 MacBook Air and Pro updates are confirmed by multiple independent sources. The iPad Air M4 transition makes strategic sense. The entry-level MacBook with A18 and color options is the most speculative, but comes from credible sources.

What would surprise analysts? A completely new form factor. An ultra-portable sub-11-inch MacBook Air. A foldable iPad. A Mac with a dedicated GPU. None of these seem likely based on available information, but Apple occasionally pulls surprises.

Most likely scenario: Apple announces MacBook Air M5, MacBook Pro M5 Pro/Max, iPad Air M4, and entry-level iPad A18. These are solid, predictable updates that address real market demand without major surprises.

Second-most likely: Same hardware plus some software surprise related to Apple Intelligence. Maybe new AI features that only work on the updated devices, driving upgrade momentum.

Least likely but possible: Announcement of upcoming Mac mini and Mac Studio updates, but not immediate availability. Apple might show the products to build anticipation before official launch.

What This Means for Existing Mac and iPad Users

If you're thinking about upgrading, March 4 is your signal. Current-generation MacBook Air and iPad Air will likely see price drops as they clear inventory. That's your opportunity to grab previous-gen hardware at a discount if budget is a concern.

For people with M3 or M4 Macs: you don't need to upgrade unless you have specific performance bottlenecks. These machines are still fast for most work. But if you're on Intel hardware or older M1 Macs, this M5 refresh is the signal that it's time to upgrade.

Apple's typically generous with software updates—macOS updates support Macs going back 5-6 years. So your old machine won't suddenly become obsolete March 5. But performance improvements in new hardware justify upgrades for people doing heavy creative or development work.

Apple Intelligence adoption is the real tipping point. If you want the full AI features on Mac, you need M-series hardware with the Neural Engine. M5 improves that experience further. This might be the actual upgrade driver—not raw performance, but access to new capabilities.

The Competitive Landscape: Windows and Chrome OS Response

This event arrives in a competitive window. Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs are gaining market share, emphasizing AI capabilities and integration with Windows. Google Chromebooks are dominant in education. Apple needs to make Mac relevant in conversations about AI and productivity.

Windows machines have more user choice and lower prices. A Copilot+ PC might start at

Chromebooks own the education space. But Apple's entry-level colored MacBook could appeal to students willing to spend a bit more for a "real" computer. The psychology of owning an Apple product is real.

Linux users aren't Apple's target, but worth noting: developers have more choice now. But Apple Silicon's performance-per-watt and integration with development tools keeps macOS competitive for developers.

Apple's not winning on price. But on performance-per-watt, privacy, design, and ecosystem integration, they're strong. March 4's event should reinforce those advantages.

The Bigger Picture: Apple's 2025 Strategy

March 4 is the first domino in what looks like an aggressive 2025 for Apple. If this event delivers solid updates, expect momentum to carry through the year.

WWDC in June will likely focus on software. New features in macOS 16 (or whatever they call it). Deeper AI integration. Better cross-device functionality. The usual developer announcements.

Fall brings iPhone 17 and the next iPad Pro refresh. Apple typically lets professional notebooks mature for a full year before major updates, so MacBook Pro and Air probably stay M5 through 2025.

This staggered approach keeps Apple in the news consistently. Spring hardware. Summer software. Fall flagship phones. It's clockwork, and customers learn to anticipate it.

The bigger strategic point: Apple's doubling down on AI after watching OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft get ahead of them in generative AI. The M5 with improved Neural Engine is their answer. Apple Intelligence across Mac, iPad, and iPhone is their ecosystem play. It's a "we're catching up and will lead with privacy" message.

They can't out-AI ChatGPT or Gemini in raw capability. But they can win on integration, privacy, and seamless experience across devices. That's the bet they're making, and March 4 is where that strategy becomes hardware reality.

Final Expectations: Going In Prepared

If you're planning to attend, watch the livestream, or follow coverage on March 4, here's what to expect:

The event runs roughly 60-90 minutes if it's traditional format. It'll likely open with a broad statement about Apple's vision for 2025. Then detailed product reveals: MacBook Air first (it's the volume product), then MacBook Pro (professional segment), then iPad Air and entry-level iPad.

Apple will showcase real applications—video editing in Final Cut Pro on M5, design work in Adobe Creative Suite, development work in Xcode. They'll emphasize battery life, AI capabilities, and color options (if the new colors are real).

Pricing and availability come near the end. Pre-orders start immediately after the event, typically available within days.

The message: Apple Silicon is mature, M5 is meaningfully better, and AI on Mac/iPad is real and useful. Be prepared for Apple to emphasize privacy (on-device processing), performance, and integration across the ecosystem.

If you're currently on Intel or older Apple hardware, this is the event that signals "time to upgrade." If you're on M3/M4, the upgrade is optional unless you need specific new features. Either way, March 4 is important enough to pay attention to.

FAQ

What exactly is Apple announcing on March 4?

Apple is confirming new MacBook Air with M5 chip, refreshed 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, iPad Air with M4 chip, and potentially a new entry-level iPad with A18 chip supporting Apple Intelligence. The event is framed as an "Apple Experience" in New York City at 9 AM ET.

Will the March 4 event be livestreamed?

Apple hasn't officially confirmed livestream availability, but historically they livestream major product events. Given the "Apple Experience" format and simultaneous events in London and Shanghai, expect some form of broadcast, though it might be curated rather than traditional keynote coverage.

Should I buy a Mac before or after March 4?

If you can wait, definitely wait until after March 4. You'll get better specs (M5 instead of M4) for the same price, plus longer battery life and improved AI capabilities. Current-generation inventory will also see price drops as Apple clears stock.

What performance improvements does M5 actually provide?

The M5 delivers approximately 10-15% faster single-threaded CPU performance, 20-30% faster GPU performance in graphics-intensive tasks, and notably improved Neural Engine performance for AI workloads. Memory bandwidth improvements benefit video editing and data processing tasks specifically.

Is the entry-level colored MacBook real?

Rumors suggest a new entry-level MacBook starting around

Will current MacBook Air and Pro prices drop after March 4?

Almost certainly yes. Apple typically lowers prices on previous-generation products when new models launch. Expect

What makes iPad Air M4 significant compared to M2?

The jump from M2 to M4 represents two generations of improvement, delivering faster CPU performance (roughly 30% improvement), substantially better GPU capability (important for creative apps like Procreate and Adobe Fresco), and importantly, a faster Neural Engine enabling more capable Apple Intelligence features.

When will these products actually be available for purchase?

March 4 is the announcement date. Pre-orders typically open within 2-3 days (around March 5-7), with general availability beginning roughly a week later (March 12-14). Some products, like the rumored entry-level MacBook, might have delayed availability.

Does M5 have Thunderbolt 5 support?

That hasn't been confirmed. Thunderbolt 5 adoption is still limited among peripherals, so Apple might hold off introducing it. MacBook Air will likely keep Thunderbolt 3 (still extremely capable at 40 Gbps), while MacBook Pro might upgrade to Thunderbolt 5, though this remains speculation.

How does Apple Intelligence on M5 differ from M4?

The M5's improved Neural Engine processes AI tasks faster and more efficiently. Apple Intelligence features like writing suggestions, image analysis, and on-device AI run quicker, and the improved efficiency means longer battery life when using these features. However, the core AI capabilities are largely the same; M5 just executes them better.

Key Takeaways

• Apple's March 4 NYC event will announce MacBook Air M5, MacBook Pro M5 Pro/Max, iPad Air M4, and possibly entry-level A18 iPad with color options
• M5 chip delivers 10-15% CPU gains, 20-30% GPU improvements, and notably faster AI processing via upgraded Neural Engine
• Entry-level colored MacBook rumored at
  $799-$
  899 with light yellow, green, blue, and pink options, targeting budget segment
• Apple Intelligence gains broader adoption with M4 iPad Air and A18 entry-level iPad, expanding on-device AI accessibility
• MacBook Air and Pro maintain competitive pricing while improving specs; expect current-gen discounts after March 4 announcement

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